Pennsylvania Treasury Department and Department of Auditor General Celebrate Black History Month
Esther L. Bush, White House Champion of Change in Educational Excellence from Pittsburgh will serve as keynote speaker
HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 27, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- State Treasurer Joe Torsella and Auditor General Eugene DePasquale today honored and celebrated the history, culture and innumerable contributions of African Americans to Pennsylvania during an event in Harrisburg, PA to recognize Black History Month.
This is the 21st Annual Black History Month event to be held jointly between the Pennsylvania Treasury and the Department of the Auditor General.
The event featured keynote speaker Esther L. Bush the president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. She was one of ten Americans recognized at the White House as a Champion of Change in Educational Excellence for African Americans programs. She was also appointed by several Pennsylvania governors to serve on numerous state boards, including the Pennsylvania State Board of Education.
Treasurer Torsella: "It is fitting that Esther is the keynote speaker in a year when 'The Crisis in Black Education' is the national Black History month theme. Not only is she a champion for education, but so, too, is Treasury as it focuses on providing and creating programs to assure all Pennsylvanians have the opportunity to realize the dream of higher education. Today's celebration gives us the opportunity to shine a light on the important role Treasury must play in creating ways to make what seems an impossible journey happen."
Auditor General Eugene DePasquale. "Diversity is one of the cornerstones of this commonwealth, as well as this country. The African American community has been vital in helping our nation reach its highest potential, and it is my great honor to celebrate the accomplishments, contributions, and leadership of African Americans alongside Treasurer Torsella."
President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, calling upon the public to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of African Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history."
Media contacts: Susan Woods, PA Auditor General's Office, (717) 787-1381 or Debra Tingley, PA Treasury Department, (717) 787-2991 or [email protected]
SOURCE Pennsylvania Treasury
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